Best Campgrounds near Mapleton, IL

Central Illinois camping options surround Mapleton, with several established campgrounds along the Illinois River within a 30-minute drive. Carl Spindler Campground and Millpoint Park in East Peoria offer waterfront camping with views of the Peoria skyline, while Sand Ridge State Forest, about 20 miles southwest, provides a different experience with pine forests and sandy trails. The region supports diverse camping styles from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping, with both public and private facilities available. Jubilee College State Park northwest of Mapleton offers seasonal camping from May through December, while several wildlife management areas provide more rustic options.

Camping season peaks from late spring through early fall, with most facilities operating from May through October. Water quality varies significantly between campgrounds, with several reviewers noting high iron content in the water at riverside locations. As one camper at Millpoint Park advised, "Don't forget your RV water filter! The water here is very rusty." Summer brings humid conditions with occasional thunderstorms, while spring flooding can affect riverside campgrounds. Cell service is generally reliable near East Peoria locations but becomes spotty in more remote areas like Sand Ridge State Forest, where backpackers should prepare for limited connectivity and bring adequate water supplies.

Illinois River access represents a defining feature of the area's camping experience, with fishing and boating opportunities at multiple locations. Campers consistently mention the scenic river views and sunsets as highlights. "Big trees, deep shade and it's right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River," noted one visitor to Millpoint Park. Sand Ridge State Forest offers a contrasting landscape with what one reviewer called "an unexpected discovery in Illinois" featuring sandy trails and even prickly pear cactus. Privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with some riverside sites offering spacious settings while others place campers in closer proximity. Winter camping options are limited, though Carl Spindler maintains some year-round sites with 22 paved spots available during colder months.

Best Camping Sites Near Mapleton, Illinois (52)

    1. Carl Spindler Campground

    11 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 699-3549

    "This waterfront campground is perfect for anglers and particularly boaters who want to have their vessels close at hand, tied up at the marina, providing quick and EZ access to a fresh body of water that"

    "It was also a short walk to the Illinois River!!!"

    2. Pine Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Forest City, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 597-2212

    $8 / night

    "The trail is a mix of sand and soil. It’s quite an unexpected discovery in Illinois. We didn’t see anyone else on the trail but we saw cars parked so hikers were out there. "

    "It’s a nice get away from the city. I haven’t stayed at any of the backpacking sites, but the main campground. It is located under a bunch of tall pines, and feels fairly open."

    3. Millpoint Park

    16 Reviews
    Peoria Heights, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 231-6497

    $18 - $100 / night

    "Perched on Upper Peoria Lake where the Illinois River conjoins, this family-friendly and pet-inviting lush camping outpost is completely surrounded by Spring Bay Fen Nature Reserve, absolutely guaranteeing"

    "If you’re looking to stay close to Peoria and enjoy beautiful sunsets and the water this place has it. Big trees, deep shade and it’s right on the Peoria Lake on the Illinois River."

    4. Jubilee College State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Brimfield, IL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 446-3758

    "The abundant forest, trails and the creek going through the park make this an ideal place to visit during spring and fall. Summer is ok too but may get a bit hot in Central Illinois for my taste."

    "Located outside of Peoria, Jubilee is far enough away from town that you get clear, start night skies.

    The campsite has three main loops with RV pads and electric goo ups."

    5. Kentuckiana Campground

    7 Reviews
    Mackinaw, IL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 449-3274

    "When Unhitching if there is anyone waiting to drive by, you feel kind of rushed. Don’t let it make you forget wheel chocks or something important. They have a nice pond."

    "We stayed here last year and will likely stay there again this year when we are back in Illinois. The park has two sides, one side closer to the stage."

    6. Spring Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Manito, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 968-7135

    "This campground has walk-in only camping but it’s right next to where you park. It’s a quiet place in an open field surrounded by forest. Choose a campsite under some trees if you like."

    7. Horseman's Park — Sand Ridge State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Forest City, IL
    15 miles
    +1 (309) 597-2212

    $8 / night

    "A set of vault toilets is commonly located. Along with garbage cans there are multiple spots to pile manure. There were a couple sites occupied the first night but it emptied out on Saturday. "

    "Lots of trails nearby, and plenty of beautiful green trees. Outhouse on site. One of the more quiet sites that doesn’t get a lot of action."

    8. Walmart - Peoria Supercenter

    1 Review
    Peoria, IL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (309) 694-0513

    9. Oak Campground — Sand Ridge State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Forest City, IL
    14 miles

    "Trails are long and well maintained. All sand! this is my go to state forest since it’s so close to my home. campgrounds are clean and it’s never super busy!"

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Recent Reviews near Mapleton, IL

228 Reviews of 52 Mapleton Campgrounds



Guide to Mapleton

Camping near Mapleton, Illinois, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: At Comlara County Park, you can enjoy fishing for bass and walleye or rent a boat to explore Evergreen Lake. One visitor mentioned, "There are simply tons of little nooks and crannies all around the lake to get some decent fishing in."
  • Nature Trails: Jubilee College State Park Campground has nicely groomed nature trails perfect for hiking. A reviewer noted, "Nature trails are nicely groomed and mowed."
  • Playgrounds and Activities: Families will appreciate the playgrounds at Kentuckiana Campground. One camper said, "Great place for kids. Decent little parks."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers at Millpoint Park rave about the cleanliness. A review states, "The showers and bathrooms are amazing! Very clean."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. At Carl Spindler Campground, one camper shared, "The shower houses are amazing! This campground is very well maintained."
  • Scenic Views: Campers enjoy beautiful views, especially at Galesburg East / Knoxville KOA Journey. A reviewer mentioned, "Clean grounds, nicest bath house I’ve seen at a campground, hands down."

What you should know:

  • Privacy Concerns: At Comlara County Park, some campers feel the sites are too close together. One reviewer noted, "They are spaced a little too close to comfort for my taste."
  • Limited Amenities: Jubilee College State Park Campground has fewer amenities for families with young kids. A visitor mentioned, "Not a lot of amenities for families with young kids."
  • Water Quality: Campers at Millpoint Park noted that the water has a strong iron taste. One camper advised, "Bring cases of bottled water."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. Kentuckiana Campground has a giant slide and parks for kids to play. A camper said, "Lots of activities for kids and families."
  • Choose the Right Site: Some sites offer more privacy and space. At Carl Spindler Campground, one reviewer appreciated the quieter areas, stating, "Great views at the opposite side of the campground from where I was."
  • Plan for Meals: If you want a break from cooking, consider nearby dining options. A visitor at Comlara County Park suggested heading to Bloomington for great food.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups for your RV. At Millpoint Park, one camper mentioned, "We enjoyed a nice pull-through full hookup site that required minimal leveling."
  • Be Prepared for Dust: If you’re camping at Timberline Campground, be ready for a dusty environment due to ATVs and golf carts. A reviewer noted, "This place is as country as it gets."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours, especially in family-friendly campgrounds. A visitor at Kentuckiana Campground mentioned, "They don’t let kids ride bikes at night which makes sense."

Camping near Mapleton, Illinois, has something for everyone. From fishing and hiking to family activities, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Mapleton, IL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mapleton, IL is Carl Spindler Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 11 reviews.